Our take: White roses and thorns

THORNS: In advance, to those who don't vote. Unfortunately, that's been a majority of York countians in recent elections.

ROSES: To everyone who participated in the York Halloween Parade last weekend - and, of course, to the organizers of the event, particularly the York YWCA. Unfortunately, participation was light, as many folks rushed to prepare for a Frankenstorm that turned out to be more scary than damaging in York County. That's two parades in a row ruined by mother nature. We can't let this community tradition end with such a whimper. The YWCA said this will be the last time it sponsors the event, and we hope someone will step forward for next year (and, of course, let's hope the weather cooperates).

ROSES: To the West Manchester Township mothers who pushed on with trick-or-treating despite the township's decision to cancel the event.

ROSES: To news that area students are "adjusting" to new rules designed to make school lunches healthier. Early in the school year there were reports of a lot of wasted food as kids took fruits and veggies as part of meal deals, and then just threw them away. Now kids are more savvy about what they need to take to get the meal price, and less food is being wasted - and students are eating healthier, too.

ROSES: To York Area Regional Police officers Adam Cohick, James Hess, Laura Wilson and Joshua Crimmel for being honored at the department's annual award ceremony.

ROSES: To a recent FBI report that found crime rates are continuing to fall nationwide. With officers like those mentioned above, is it any surprise?

THORNS: To put it far too mildly, to Tracey Bradley for killing Lee Choppin in May of 2010 at a Manchester Township hotel. He was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

THORNS: To Rita L. Wynegar of York Township for stealing more than $300,000 from her elderly great-aunt and using the money for personal purchases, including a $14,200 swimming pool.

THORNS: To Justina Maggie Miller for driving under the influence of drugs - and without a license - and killing Catalina Colon-Vega after losing control of her car in York Set. 20, 2011. She was sentenced to 3½ to seven years.

ROSES: To Susquehannock High School teacher Kellin McCullough and student Tim Frey for making plans to open a coffee shop at Susquehannock High School for students to operate so they can learn about running businesses. The shop will operate for 30 minutes before and after school. Roses also to the school board for approving the proposal.